Ethiopia Travel Guide

First time visitors to Ethiopia are generally amazed by the stunning natural beauty of a country that is also incredibly rich in culture and history. The striking diversity of landscapes, ancient traditions and people leaves a lasting impression to challenge the frequent portrayal of a land stricken by years of drought and famine, AIDS and foreign aid.Brimming with contrasts and extremes, Ethiopia beckons visitors to explore from the tops of its highlands, where mountains soar to around 14,108ft (4,300m), to the depths of the Danakil Depression situated below sea level; to discover Abyssinian culture and traditions that date back over 3,000 years; to experience ancient Islamic folklore, as well as the fascinating rituals and sacred ceremonies of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Ethiopia is also described as the Cradle of Humanity, home to the oldest human remains in the world, while at the same time its capital Addis Ababa, meaning 'New Flower' in Amharic, is home to the more modern problems of urban migration, where homeless people roam the streets in search of food, money and a better life.Northern Ethiopia holds the greatest attraction for visitors as one of the country's richest regions for culture, history and natural splendour. The Historic Route takes in the medieval city of Gondar, with more castles, palaces and churches than any other city in Africa; and the ancient capital of the Queen of Sheba and Ethiopia's holiest city, Axum, where the original Ark of the Covenant containing the Ten Commandments is said to rest. Ethiopia's top attraction, the 13th century rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, are among the most incredible man-made creations in the world, revered and renowned among Ethiopians and foreigners alike and the venue for some of the most famous religious festivals in Ethiopia. Taking 24 years to complete, the astounding rock churches are believed to have been created with the help of angels.The north also boasts the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, encompassing the fourth highest peak on the continent, and providing fantastic hiking opportunities and a variety of wildlife. Bahar Dar, situated on Lake Tana, is popular as a base from which to explore the intriguing monasteries built on the many islands scattered about the lake, as well as the Blue Nile Falls, or 'Smoke of Fire', which are the most impressive falls in northern Africa.Ethiopia is set among a contrasting environment of natural beauty and the signs of poverty, where lakes, mountains and wildlife reserves compete for attention with the poor and hungry. Ethiopia is used to being overlooked as a tourist destination, but the country's unique attractions are slowly taking pride of place in North East Africa, and today the oldest independent nation on the continent welcomes visitors to experience her mosaic of ethnicity, a long and proud history, and an abundance of stunning scenery.

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Ethiopia Climate and Weather

There are two main seasons in Ethiopia, but temperatures depend on the altitude. The lowlands are generally hot and humid, with cooler temperatures in the Ethiopian Highlands. The dry season runs from October to May and is the most pleasant time to visit, while June to September is the rainy season.

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Ethiopia Currency

Money: The official currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB), which is divided into 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and authorised hotels. Credit cards have limited usage outside of Addis Ababa, and even in the capital they are only accepted by major establishments. Visitors should carry a supply of travellers cheques or hard currency with them, preferably in US dollars. ATMs are sparse, but banks are usually open every day except Sundays from 8am to 11am and 1pm till 4pm.

Currency Exchange Rates
ETB 1 =	US$ 0.11	£ 0.05	C$ 0.10	A$ 0.12	R 0.71	EUR 0.07	NZ$ 0.14

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

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Ethiopia Health Overview

Travellers to Ethiopia are recommended to have vaccines for polio, yellow fever, typhoid, Hepatitis A and cholera. There are frequent outbreaks of meningococcal disease, HIV/Aids is widespread, and malaria is prevalent in the lowlands (below 6,562ft/2,000m); a resistance to chloroquine has been reported. Mosquitoes also carry dengue fever. Waterborne diseases are prevalent and travellers are advised to drink bottled or treated water. The high altitude of the Highlands region may also affect travellers; Addis Ababa sits at 9,186ft (2,800m), and adjusting may take a few days. Other health risks include rabies and bilharzia. Medical facilities are poor outside of Addis Ababa, where hospitals are available, and medical supplies are erratic; visitors should bring their own regular medications with them and arrange comprehensive medical insurance before travel.

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Ethiopia Passport & Visa Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans: US nationals require a passport and a visa for travel to Ethiopia. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival and are valid for three months; in some cases a business visa can also be obtained on arrival, but it is best to organise this in advance.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:British nationals require a passport and a visa for travel to Ethiopia. Passport holders endorsed British Citizen can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, which is valid for three months; in some cases a business visa can also be obtained on arrival, but it is best to organise this in advance.
Entry requirements for Canadians:Canadians require a passport and a visa for travel to Ethiopia. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival and are valid for three months; in some cases a business visa can also be obtained on arrival, but it is best to organise this in advance.
Entry requirements for Australians:Australians require a passport and a visa for travel to Ethiopia. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival and are valid for three months; in some cases a business visa can also be obtained on arrival, but it is best to organise this in advance.
Entry requirements for South Africans:South Africans require a passport and a visa for travel to Ethiopia. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival and are valid for three months; in some cases a business visa can also be obtained on arrival, but it is best to organise this in advance.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:Irish nationals require a passport and a visa for travel to Ethiopia. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival and are valid for three months; in some cases a business visa can also be obtained on arrival, but it is best to organise this in advance.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:New Zealand nationals require a passport and a visa for travel to Ethiopia. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival and are valid for three months; in some cases a business visa can also be obtained on arrival, but it is best to organise this in advance.
Passport/Visa Note:All visitors require return or onward tickets, all documents needed for the next destination and sufficient funds ($50 per day) to cover intended period of stay. Entry into Ethiopia is allowed only from Addis Ababa International Airport, unless the Government has granted permission. Visitors eligible to obtain a visa on arrival require two passport photos and a maximum of US$40; fees vary according to nationality.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

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Ethiopia Basics

Time: Local time is GMT +3.
Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs are used.
Language: Amharic is the official language, although over 80 local languages are also spoken. English is understood in most major towns, as well as some French and Italian.
Health: Travellers to Ethiopia are recommended to have vaccines for polio, yellow fever, typhoid, Hepatitis A and cholera. There are frequent outbreaks of meningococcal disease, HIV/Aids is widespread, and malaria is prevalent in the lowlands (below 6,562ft/2,000m); a resistance to chloroquine has been reported. Mosquitoes also carry dengue fever. Waterborne diseases are prevalent and travellers are advised to drink bottled or treated water. The high altitude of the Highlands region may also affect travellers; Addis Ababa sits at 9,186ft (2,800m), and adjusting may take a few days. Other health risks include rabies and bilharzia. Medical facilities are poor outside of Addis Ababa, where hospitals are available, and medical supplies are erratic; visitors should bring their own regular medications with them and arrange comprehensive medical insurance before travel.
Tipping: Tourist hotels and restaurants usually add a 10% service charge to the bill. Otherwise tipping is fairly common, but only small amounts are customary.
Safety: Visitors are cautioned to avoid all public demonstrations and large crowds, particularly in Addis Ababa, and to keep a low profile in public places. Travel to the Gambella region near the southern Sudanese border, as well as to within 12 miles (20km) of the Eritrean border in the Tigray and Afar regions (military zones), should be avoided due to violent unrest and an unstable security situation. The border between Eritrea and Ethiopia is closed. Travelling to Somalia by road should also be avoided, as well as all travel east of Harar. There have been several recent explosions in Jijiga. Overland travel to Sudan or Kenya is dangerous due to armed bandits, and should only be attempted in a convoy. There is a high threat from local terrorism in the country, and although not directed at foreigners, visitors need to be cautious in public places. Flooding often affects Ethiopia between June and September each year, killing hundreds of people in flash floods in low-lying areas.
Customs: The Ethiopian Highlands are mainly Orthodox Christian and restaurants do not serve meat dishes on Wednesdays, Fridays and during Lent. Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which consists of 13 months (12 months of 30 days, the thirteenth month has five or six days), and in 2007 the year is 1999/2000 in Ethiopia. There is a six-hour difference between Ethiopian time and Western time, so 3am in Western time will be 9am Ethiopian time (add six hours to the time). Homosexuality is illegal. Shoes should be removed before entering mosques and churches. Photographs should not be taken of military buildings and airports, and permission should be asked before photographing religious festivals and people.
Business: Etiquette is very important in Ethiopia, both socially and in business. Formal attire is expected of men and women. Greetings are very important and the shaking of hands is the norm for first meetings. Ethiopians like to establish good relations with one another and personal relationships are the cornerstone of business. English is understood by most businessmen in Addis Ababa, as well as some French and Italian. Ethiopians respect their elders and visitors should show the same courtesy. Business hours are generally 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday with an hour taken at lunch, but may vary according to individual businesses.
Communications: The international dialling code for Ethiopia is +251. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). The area code for Addis Ababa is (0)1. Telephone, fax and postal facilities are available in most main towns. IDD is available. There are Internet cafes in Addis Ababa and Internet services may be available in upmarket hotels in other areas. A GSM 900 network is provided, but coverage is limited to Addis Ababa and a few other parts of the country.
Duty Free: Travellers to Ethiopia over the age of 18 years do not have to pay customs duty on 100 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 227g of tobacco; 1 litre of alcoholic beverages; 2 bottles or 500ml of perfume; and gifts to the value of Br10.

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Ethiopia Airports

Bole International Airport

Location: The airport is situated five miles (8km) from Addis Ababa.
Time: GMT +3.
Contacts: Tel: +251 (0)1 180 454.
Transfer to the city: A regular coach service connects the airport to the city centre. Taxis are also available outside the terminal building.
Car rental: Car rental is available at the airport.
Facilities: Facilities include a bank and bureau de change, restaurants and bars, duty-free and gift shops, travel agents, a post office, and a tourist help desk.
Departure tax: A Passenger Service Charge of US$20 is levied on all foreign passengers.

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